2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L was a longer version of the standard two-row Grand Cherokee, extending 29 centimetres to accommodate third-row seating. Its wheelbase stretched an additional 12.7 cm, providing more legroom in the second row and wider rear doors. The design seamlessly integrated the extra length, making the standard Grand Cherokee appear truncated. Jeep's decision to release the L model first, as an all-new 2021 model, contributed to this perception. The Grand Cherokee L maintained Jeep's signature design elements, such as the seven-slot grille and U-shaped wheel arches, while modernizing with slimmer, brighter lighting and improved paint finish and panel fit. The interior was luxurious, featuring dual high-resolution screens, real wood, aluminum, and Palermo leather seating, offering a Mercedes-like style and quality.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, available in Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle trims, offered a practical alternative to SUVs. The mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package added body-coloured door handles, gloss black grille surround, and black accents, complemented by 18-inch wheels. The split grille and LED headlamps and tail lamps enhanced its modern look. While the interior was predominantly black, the Nappa leather seats and sweeping dash lines added sophistication. The Pacifica Hybrid's practicality was evident in its sliding doors and ample cargo space, although the interior's dark tones and proximity of controls could be confusing. The minivan's design prioritized functionality over the SUV's cool factor.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered two engine options: a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 and a 5.7-litre V8, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, the Grand Cherokee L came standard with four-wheel drive, offering three different systems, while rear-wheel drive was not available. The V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, was found lacking for the vehicle's weight, requiring high revs and resulting in engine noise. The V8, available on higher trims, delivered 357 hp and 390 lb-ft, providing a more satisfying performance. Fuel efficiency for the V6 was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 9.4 highway, and 11.3 combined, while the V8 was less efficient. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis was praised for its ride composure and steering feel, with an optional air suspension offering adjustable ride heights and driving modes for various terrains. The vehicle's towing capacity was 3,265 kilograms.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, offering 51 kilometres of all-electric range and 784 kilometres of total range. The plug-in hybrid achieved a fuel economy of 2.9 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres and 8.0 L/100 km combined non-hybrid. In testing, the Pacifica Hybrid exceeded these estimates, achieving 53 km of electric range and 885 km total range. Charging the battery took two hours on a Level 2 charger, while a standard outlet required 14 hours. The Pacifica defaulted to all-electric mode, which was efficient in city driving but less so on highways. The hybrid model was front-wheel drive only and lacked a spare tire and towing package. The Pacifica Hybrid's 260 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque were adequate for highway passing, with a smooth CVT and light steering. The battery's placement improved handling by lowering the centre of gravity.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L featured the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, known for its simplicity and sleek graphics. Physical switches for climate and stereo controls were user-friendly, and the central rotary shifter was intuitive. The Laredo and Altitude trims had an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered a 10.1-inch screen. The Grand Cherokee L provided ample space in all rows, with captain's chairs standard in the second row and a 60/40 split bench optional. A panoramic roof and multiple USB ports enhanced comfort, though the air vents were insufficient, requiring a loud fan setting.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor children in the second and third rows. The minivan featured heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a comfortable driver's seat. The second-row seats were low, but the centre pathway allowed easy access to the spacious third row. The Pacifica Hybrid lacked the Stow 'n Go seats due to the battery placement, reducing versatility. Cargo space was 914 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,477 litres with seats folded, and 3,978 litres total. However, competitors offered more space. The plug-in hybrid also missed out on features like a built-in vacuum cleaner and heated second-row seats.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L offered premium features on upper trims, including massage modes for front seats, a head-up display, night vision, a 360-degree camera system, and Active Driving Assist. The navigation system integrated with the instrument panel, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. The Summit trims added automatic parking, traffic sign recognition, and a rear-facing camera. The Summit Reserve featured a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, while lower trims had simpler stereos.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, with apps and games for long trips. Devices could be charged via numerous USB ports, 12-volt outlets, and wireless charging. The entertainment system's value was questionable, given the prevalence of personal devices.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L had not been tested by NHTSA or IIHS. It included standard driver and passenger knee airbags, trailer sway control, and various driver aids.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured standard safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system was effective, and the adaptive cruise control was smooth. Additional features like parking assist required higher trims. The 2023 model had not been rated by NHTSA, but the 2022 version received a five-star rating. IIHS gave it Good marks, except for Marginal seat belt reminders and Average headlights and LATCH ease of use.